DO YOU REJOICE WHEN IN SUFFERING??

 

Romans 5:3-6  Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. (NIV)

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Faith in Jesus Christ beings us peace with God; and also bring us joy when we face all kinds of suffering. In the same way that pain and death was not the end for Jesus, they are not the end for us either: quite the opposite, in fact. Instead of driving us away from God, troubles are used by God to refine our character and give us hope in Christ.

Godly people will rejoice in hardship and not give up. Enduring suffering can never contribute to our salvation, but will strengthen and equip us to serve Him better. Despite the difficulties, the Holy Spirit assures us that we are loved and we have a future. In the meantime, God is working in us: as we persevere in His strength so our character becomes more Christ-like, and as we learn to walk more closely with Him we develop confidence in Him.

Our natural inclination is to run from trouble, and despair when suffering continues. But God's Word and His Spirit agree that those who trust in Christ are held in a love which will never let them go. His love is not just to save us from sin but also to sustain us in suffering. And God uses suffering to achieve His purpose of helping us to depend on Him, so that He can work His miracles in our lives. So whatever your circumstances, do not despair! Accept that you are privileged to be in God's training programme for greater service, and your future is safe. God knows what He is doing!

Prayer:  Heavenly Father. It is such a relief to know that You totally understand suffering. Thank You that all the suffering of Jesus Christ was purposeful: the means of my salvation. Thank You that none of my troubles are purposeless, and that You work in every situation to bring good to Your people and glory to Yourself. Forgive me when I resent and resist the pains of suffering, not seeing that You are at work within me. Please help me to have fresh courage and perseverance so that I may cooperate with You, confident that You have my future secure for Your glory. In Jesus' Name. Amen.